Planning a trip to the Outer Banks with your little ones? While it might seem like the OBX is all about the beach and ocean waves, there's a lot more to do to keep your toddlers and babies entertained and engaged. Whether they’ll remember it or not, you’ll cherish these memories forever. Here’s a list of must-do activities and places to explore with your little adventurers on the Outer Banks.
The Sound Beach Access at Jockey’s Ridge
For a calmer beach experience, head to the sound-side access at Jockey’s Ridge. The shallow, warm waters are perfect for toddlers to splash around safely. You can relax while your little one plays in the gentle waves. Don’t forget to pack a beach umbrella or tent, and plenty of sunscreen!
Dowdy Park
Dowdy Park in Nags Head is a perfect spot for kids to burn off some energy. The park features a variety of play structures designed for different age groups, so your toddler can enjoy age-appropriate activities. With picnic areas and open spaces, it’s also a great place for a family picnic.
Splash Pad
On a hot summer day, the Splash Pad is a lifesaver. Let your little ones cool off and have fun at the same time. The interactive water features are designed for younger children, making it a safe and enjoyable environment for toddlers to explore.
H2OBX Waterpark
If your kids love water, they’ll have a blast at H2OBX Waterpark. With areas specifically designed for younger children, like kiddie pools and gentle slides, your toddlers will be entertained for hours. Remember to bring swim diapers and plenty of towels!
Jumpmasters Trampoline Park
When your toddlers need to get their wiggles out, head to Jumpmasters Trampoline Park. This indoor attraction offers a special toddler area where your little ones can bounce and play safely. It’s a great way to let them burn off energy, especially on a rainy day.
North Carolina Aquarium
The North Carolina Aquarium is a must-visit for families with young children. The interactive exhibits and touch tanks will captivate your toddler’s attention, and the aquarium’s focus on local marine life provides an educational experience as well. The stroller-friendly layout makes it easy to navigate with little ones in tow.
Outdoor Dining Restaurants
Dining out with toddlers can be challenging, but the Outer Banks offers plenty of outdoor dining options where kids can enjoy the fresh air while you savor local cuisine. Many restaurants provide high chairs and kid-friendly menus, so everyone in the family can enjoy the meal.
Renting Baby Equipment from OAR
Traveling with toddlers and babies means bringing a lot of gear, but you don’t have to pack everything. Consider renting baby equipment from Ocean Atlantic Rentals (OAR). From cribs and high chairs to beach gear, they’ve got you covered, making your vacation a lot easier and less stressful.
Stroller Ride at the Duck Town Park Boardwalk
Take a leisurely stroller ride along the mile-long Duck Town Park Boardwalk. The scenic views of the sound, shaded paths, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a relaxing walk with your little one. It’s also an excellent place to catch a stunning sunset. There is a playground at the entrance to the boardwalk as well!
Playgrounds Around Town
We locals with babes have the down low on where all of the playgrounds are located. Here is a link to our to the Things-to-Do section of our website, filtered by Parks and Playgrounds.
Beach Fun: Sandcastles, Sand Toys, Baby Pools
Of course, no trip to the Outer Banks is complete without some beach time. Pack some sand toys and a baby pool, and build sandcastles with your toddler. The beach offers endless opportunities for fun, from splashing in the waves to digging in the sand. Remember to keep your little one protected from the sun with a beach umbrella or tent, and apply sunscreen frequently.
Family Photo Session
Capture the memories of your Outer Banks vacation with a family photo session. Many local photographers specialize in beach photography and can help you create beautiful keepsakes of your time together. It’s a wonderful way to remember your trip and the special moments shared with your family.
Wild Horse Tours
Feel the ocean breeze and taste the salty beach air as you cruise the Outer Banks beaches in our exclusive open-air Hummers with one of our seasoned guides in search of the Colonial Spanish Mustangs! View the horses in their natural environment as we transport you into three distinct ecosystems teeming with wildlife, accessible only by off-road vehicles. Tours are appropriate for all ages; if you have children still in car seats, please let them know beforehand.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is on the Albemarle Peninsula in eastern North Carolina. The refuge was established in 1984 to protect the rare pocosin wetlands and their associated wildlife. Pocosin wetlands grow on thick layers of peat and have stunted, shrubby vegetation. The refuge also protects swamp forest and is fringed with marsh. The vast protected area supports large populations of black bear, wintering waterfowl, river otter, and other wildlife species. In addition, the refuge is one of the only places in the world where you may see endangered red wolves in the wild.
You must make reservations for all tram tours. The cost is $10 per person aged 13 and older. Children 12 and younger ride free with a paying, supervising adult. From June through August, the tram runs on Thursdays from 8:30 to 11 a.m. September through May, there is a monthly three-hour tour on the second Saturday of each month. Monthly tour times are 9 a.m. to noon. Tours will not run during heavy wind, rain, or lightning. Meet at Creef Cut Wildlife Trail parking lot at the intersection of Milltail Road and U.S. Highway 64 in East Lake. Call to check if tram tours are happening, to make reservations, and to confirm tour dates and times.